fourth class

¹ American  

noun

1. (in the U.S. Postal Service) the class of mail consisting of merchandise weighing one pound or more, including parcel post and all first-, second-, or third-class matter weighing 8 ounces (227 grams) or more and not sealed against inspection.

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fourth-class ² American  

[fawrth-klas, -klahs, fohrth-] / ˈfɔrθˈklæs, -ˈklɑs, ˈfoʊrθ- /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or designated as a class next below third, as for mailing, shipping, etc.

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adverb

1. as fourth-class matter; by fourth-class mail.

   Send it fourth-class.

fourth-class British  

adjective

1. of or relating to mail that is carried at the lowest rate

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adverb

1. by fourth-class mail

Etymology

Origin of fourth class¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Origin of fourth-class¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

After the climb is complete, they’re called fourth class midshipmen, not plebes.

From Seattle Times

I was like, ‘Should I do a fourth class?’

From Los Angeles Times

“Would all members of the student government please report to the auditorium at the start of the fourth class period? Thank you.”

From Literature

In the course of the day I was enrolled a member of the fourth class, and regular tasks and occupations were assigned me: hitherto, I had only been a spectator of the proceedings at Lowood; I was now to become an actor therein.

From Literature

“I did enjoy my time in Germany,” said Monical, who was a Specialist Fourth Class, which he said was equivalent to a corporal.

From Washington Times